In a significant development for skilled migration, the Australian Department of Home Affairs has implemented major reforms to the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) subclass 482 visa. As of 25 November 2023, these changes establish a more inclusive and expedited pathway to permanent residency in Australia, opening up opportunities for TSS visa holders across all occupation streams. This article outlines the key updates, eligibility criteria, and practical implications for visa holders and employers.
Permanent Residency Access Through the ENS 186 TRT Stream for All TSS Visa Holders
Previously, only visa holders in the Medium-Term stream of the TSS 482 programme could access permanent residency via the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) subclass 186 visa, under the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream. This pathway has now been extended to all TSS visa holders, irrespective of their occupational list classification.
Key Points:
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All TSS subclass 482 visa holders—regardless of being listed on the STSOL, MLTSSL, or ROL—can now apply for the ENS 186 TRT stream.
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Occupations no longer need to appear on specific skilled occupation lists; the only requirement is that the occupation must be listed under ANZSCO and match the original TSS nomination.
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This reform significantly expands access to permanent residency across diverse sectors.
Shortened Employment Requirement: Two Years with Sponsoring Employer
One of the most notable changes is the reduction in the employment duration required before applying for permanent residency. The shift from a three-year to a two-year minimum employment period simplifies the process and accelerates permanent residency outcomes.
Key Points:
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Applicants must have worked for their sponsoring employer for at least two years out of the last three in the nominated occupation.
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This applies equally to all occupation streams and helps fast-track permanent residency eligibility.
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The two-year period must be continuous and based on genuine full-time employment.
Removal of Onshore Application Limitations for the Short-Term Stream
Previously, TSS visa holders in the Short-Term stream were restricted in how many times they could apply onshore, often requiring them to leave Australia between applications. These constraints have now been lifted.
Key Points:
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There is no longer a limit to the number of Short-Term stream TSS visa applications that can be lodged from within Australia.
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Visa holders can now renew their TSS visas onshore, streamlining the process and reducing disruption.
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The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement remains in place for Short-Term stream applicants.
Revised Age Exemptions for Medical Professionals and High-Income Earners
New provisions offer age exemptions to a broader group of applicants, particularly benefiting older professionals in high-demand or high-income roles.
Key Points:
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Regional medical practitioners and applicants earning above the high-income threshold (currently AUD $167,500) can now apply for the ENS 186 TRT visa at age 45 or above.
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The employment requirement has been shortened to two years, reduced from the previous three-year minimum.
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These changes support experienced professionals wishing to contribute longer-term to regional or critical sectors in Australia.
Benefits for Employers and Skilled Workers
These updates not only offer greater certainty for skilled migrants but also simplify the process for Australian businesses seeking to retain talent in a competitive labour market.
For Employers:
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Employers can now nominate a broader range of TSS visa holders for permanent roles.
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The reforms reduce red tape, with less reliance on occupation list constraints.
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The two-year timeframe allows businesses to retain skilled workers more efficiently.
For TSS Visa Holders:
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A clear and fairer pathway to permanent residency is now available across all streams.
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The simplified employment requirement expedites eligibility.
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Onshore renewals reduce costs and administrative burdens for applicants.
What These Changes Mean for the Future
These reforms are part of Australia’s broader strategy to build a more agile, inclusive and skilled migration system. By aligning pathways across all TSS visa streams and reducing eligibility barriers, the government aims to retain top global talent, particularly in sectors facing long-term skill shortages.
The new framework also reflects an increasing emphasis on long-term economic contribution and regional development, with incentives tailored towards healthcare, regional practice, and high-skilled professionals.
Final Thoughts: Navigating the New TSS Visa Landscape
For current and prospective TSS visa holders, these changes represent a major opportunity to secure permanent residency in Australia more efficiently and equitably. However, the updated criteria still demand careful planning, accurate documentation, and compliance with sponsorship obligations.
Employers and skilled migrants alike should seek timely advice to ensure they are taking full advantage of these reforms.
Book a consultation with Cedo Consulting to assess your eligibility and receive expert guidance on transitioning from the TSS visa to permanent residency under the updated rules.
Note: The information provided in this article is based on the latest available data as of June 2025. For the most current updates and detailed guidance, please refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website or consult with a registered migration professional.